“(What) we are really asking students today is to put their faith in action by bringing an item through generosity," Hamilton said. "But we are also asking them to take that lesson home with them throughout the whole entire year."

Former Vikings center Matt Birk, who went on to win a Super Bowl title with the Baltimore Ravens, spoke at the event.

He discussed the importance of faith.

"It's important for not only kids and for all of us to know our faith and to learn our faith, but also to put our faith into action," Birk said. "To do it right? So here is a chance for kids to bring an item, to donate something (to someone) who needs it, someone in need to help them out.

"And that's at the very center of Catholic teaching."

The students came from all 79 local Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.